Antipsychotics, also known as tranquilizers, are the main group of drugs used to treat schizophrenia. Here are frequently asked questions during the use of the drug:
1. Are antipsychotics safe?
All antipsychotics are prescription drugs, used only under the close supervision of health care professionals. Medications are generally safe, but there is no one-size-fits-all medication.
There are several situations that should be considered when taking antipsychotics, including: People with epilepsy, diabetes, depression, myasthenia gravis, Parkinson's disease, glaucoma or heart, liver, respiratory, kidney or prostate problems, women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or want to get pregnant.
Antipsychotics can also cause side effects in some people. Most side effects disappear after a short time and often these side effects can be successfully controlled.
2. Are antipsychotics addictive?
Addictive drugs create a state of euphoria, an intense desire to continue taking and the need to increase the amount taken to feel the same effect. Antipsychotics do not have these effects.
However, antipsychotics can cause withdrawal effects if the drug is stopped, especially if the drug is stopped abruptly. These effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dizziness, and tremors. If it is necessary to reduce the dose of an antipsychotic or discontinue it, it is best to consult your doctor for appropriate indications and to discontinue it gradually.
3. Do antipsychotics interact with other medications?
Antipsychotics can interact with other medications including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications. Medications that can cause dangerous interactions when taken with psychotic drugs include sleeping pills, allergy medications, high blood pressure medications, some medications for Parkinson's disease and erectile dysfunction.
In addition, antacids can interfere with the absorption of antipsychotics and reduce the effect of drugs. To limit this adverse interaction, it is necessary to take antacids every two hours before taking the pill or one hour after taking the sedative. Therefore, it is necessary to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
4. Is it OK to smoke, drink coffee or alcohol while taking antipsychotics?
Problems related to smoking and drinking are more common in people with schizophrenia. However, tobacco and alcohol can make it harder to manage schizophrenia symptoms.
In addition, cigarettes can speed up the breakdown of some antipsychotics, meaning that smokers may need higher doses than nonsmokers. Coffee has the opposite effect, slowing down the breakdown of antipsychotics. Antipsychotics can increase the effects of alcohol, drowsiness and dizziness.
5. Do antipsychotics affect libido, sexual function?
Antipsychotics can reduce libido and cause sexual problems. Some men have difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection or ejaculation. Women may not reach orgasm. If you experience these side effects, you should inform your doctor so that you can change the dosage or replace the medication to reduce the side effects.
In addition, antipsychotics can disrupt the menstrual cycle and produce false-positive results on pregnancy tests.
6. What tests should be done during drug treatment?
Some antipsychotics can cause changes in blood glucose levels, cholesterol levels, and heart function. To monitor these effects, your doctor will check your physical health.
You need to have your weight measured regularly, you may also need blood tests to check your kidneys, liver, cholesterol and glucose levels. Blood pressure is measured, an electrocardiogram is checked to check your heart rate, and you are given laxatives to control constipation.
The use of antipsychotics in combination with other therapies and supportive therapies can help cope with symptoms and improve the quality of life.
